11 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Texas
Last updated on Feb 19, 2023
Summary: The quality of medical care in Texas is generally considered to be on par with the rest of the United States. Texas has a wide range of medical facilities, from small rural clinics to large urban hospitals, and the quality of care is generally good. Emergency services in Texas are generally reliable and efficient, with ambulances typically arriving within a few minutes of being called. To call for an ambulance in Texas, dial 911.
How are healthcare services Texas?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Texas, they replied:
"Texas offers a wide range of healthcare services, including primary care, specialty care, mental health services, and preventive care. The state is home to some of the best hospitals and medical facilities in the country, with many of them located in major cities such as Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, and Austin. These hospitals and medical facilities offer a variety of services, including emergency care, surgery, and rehabilitation. Additionally, Texas has a number of rural health clinics and community health centers that provide care to underserved populations," commented one expat who moved to Texas.
What are medical services in Texas like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Texas, they replied:
"Texas offers a wide range of medical services to its residents. From primary care physicians to specialists, there are many options available to meet the needs of patients. Hospitals in Texas are well-equipped to provide a variety of treatments and procedures, including emergency care, surgery, and rehabilitation. Additionally, Texas has a large network of community health centers that provide low-cost or free medical services to those in need. Mental health services are also available in Texas, with a variety of providers offering counseling, therapy, and other forms of support," said one expat.
Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Texas?
"Healthcare and health insurance in Texas can be expensive. The cost of healthcare in Texas is higher than the national average, and the cost of health insurance premiums is also higher than the national average. Additionally, Texas has some of the highest out-of-pocket costs for healthcare services, meaning that even with health insurance, Texans may have to pay a significant amount for their healthcare," commented one expat who moved to Texas.
What are emergency services like in Texas?
When we asked about emergency services, members in Texas wrote:
"In Texas, emergency services are available 24/7 to respond to any medical, fire, or police emergency. To call for an ambulance, dial 911 and provide the operator with your location and the nature of the emergency. The operator will then dispatch the appropriate emergency services to your location," said an expat in Texas.
Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
"Texas is home to some of the best medical specialists in the country. The cities of Houston, Dallas, and Austin are known for having a wide variety of medical specialists, ranging from cardiologists to oncologists. San Antonio is also home to a number of highly-regarded medical specialists, including pediatricians and neurologists. Other areas of Texas that have a great selection of medical specialists include El Paso, Fort Worth, and Corpus Christi," mentioned one expat in Texas.
Are common prescription medications available in Texas?
"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Texas. Pharmacies in the state are able to fill prescriptions for a variety of medications, including antibiotics, pain relievers, antidepressants, and other medications used to treat a variety of conditions. Many pharmacies also offer generic versions of brand-name medications, which can be more affordable for patients," mentioned one expat in Texas.
Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Texas?
"Medical facilities and medical care in Texas are generally of a high quality. The state has a wide range of hospitals, clinics, and other medical facilities that provide excellent care. Texas also has a large number of highly trained and experienced medical professionals, including doctors, nurses, and other healthcare workers. Patients in Texas can expect to receive quality care from knowledgeable and compassionate medical professionals," said one expat.
As a foreigner living in Texas, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
"As a foreigner living in Texas, you may have access to public healthcare depending on your immigration status. Texas offers a variety of public health programs, including Medicaid, CHIP, and Medicare, which provide access to health care services for those who qualify. The quality of care varies depending on the program and the provider, but generally speaking, public health care in Texas is of good quality," said one expat living in Texas.
What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
We asked expats in Texas if they have access to public healthcare in Texas. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...
"My experiences with the local healthcare system in Texas during the pandemic have been mostly positive. I have been able to access the care I need, and the staff at my local hospital have been very helpful and accommodating. I have also been able to access telehealth services, which has been a great way to stay connected with my healthcare providers. Overall, I feel that the healthcare system in Texas has done a good job of adapting to the pandemic and providing quality care," remarked one expat living in Texas.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.